Understanding Painful Inflammation in Patellofemoral Joint Osteoarthritis Using [18F] FDG PET/MRI Imaging

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating painful inflammation in the patellofemoral joint affected by osteoarthritis (PFJ OA) using a combined imaging method called [18F] fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This method aims to detect pain-related inflammation by measuring glucose usage in tissues and detailed anatomy of the knee. The study focuses on distinguishing normal metabolic activity caused by weight-bearing from abnormal inflammation linked to pain in patients with PFJ OA compared to people without symptoms. The study involves two main parts. First, participants will undergo PET/MRI scans of the unloaded knee to measure FDG uptake in painful areas and compare these between PFJ OA patients and matched healthy controls. Then, participants will have a second PET/MRI scan while the knee is loaded with 25% of body weight using a custom device to assess changes in inflammation under stress. Biomechanical measurements during physical tests like single-leg squats will also be collected to analyze their relationship with imaging results. Participants will be adults able to perform 25 single-leg squats and without recent traumatic knee injuries or contraindications to MRI or PET. They will complete imaging sessions in both unloaded and loaded knee states, followed by physical performance tests. Researchers will measure maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) of FDG in knee tissues before and after loading, and evaluate pain scores during squats. This approach aims to improve understanding of inflammation and pain in PFJ OA, supporting development of better diagnostic and treatment methods. The study is expected to continue until February 2028.

FDG PET/MRI Imaging of Patellofemoral Joint Osteoarthritis